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One of the ways that I define deliverance ministry is setting people free from the influence of demons (also called evil spirits). This is one of the primary works that Jesus did in His earthly ministry; casting demons out of people to set them free.
I have been involved in deliverance ministry for the last eight years. Based on my church background I am an unlikely candidate for this ministry, but God called me into it. (Click to read how God called me into deliverance ministry).
As I have ministered in this area, I have seen that the activity of evil spirits in a person’s life will often fall into one of three categories. This is not an exhaustive list of course, but three general ways that demons seek to influence people. Keep in mind also that there are varying degrees to which demons have a hold on a person; sometimes it is very mild and other times more severe.
1. Bondage
Demons seek to place people in bondage; that is enslaved to certain sins, habits, addictions, and destructive behaviors. Just as the devil is called “the tempter” (see Matthew 4:3), evil spirits are actively working to bring people into temptation and sin. Along with the sinful nature and world system, the devil and his demons seek to enslave the human race.
When there is an inner compulsion and addiction towards sinful or destructive behaviors, there is a good chance that an evil spirit is at work. Exercising self-discipline will usually not suffice in these cases; deliverance from an evil spirit will often be needed.
2. Oppression
The Bible says that Jesus went about “healing all who were oppressed by the devil” (Acts 10:38). The devil and his demons seek to oppress people; to weigh them down and wear them out. Isaiah 61:3 says that God will give us a “garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.” The spirit of heaviness is a demonic spirit that oppresses people with depression, hopelessness, and despair. It is as if a dark cloud follows the person wherever they go, constantly weighing them down.
When people are set free from the oppression of evil spirits, it is like a heavy weight is lifted off of their shoulders. Instead of confusion there is clarity. Instead of heaviness there is joy. Instead of despair there is hope.
3. Torment
Luke 6:17-18 describes a multitude of people coming to Jesus, “who came to hear Him and be healed of their diseases, as well as those who were tormented with unclean spirits. And they were healed.” Jesus set people free from the tormenting influence of evil spirits.
Demons seek to torment, both physically and mentally. Luke 13:10-17 describes a woman who was tormented by a “spirit of infirmity” for 18 years. She was crippled in her body and unable to straighten her back. She encountered Jesus and was set free from this physical torment. Mark 5:1-20 tells the story of a man so tormented by demons that he lived in the tombs, crying out and cutting himself with stones. After Jesus set him free he was found “clothed and in his right mind” (Mark 5:15).
Evil spirits seek to torment people with fear, physical pain and sickness, insomnia and night terrors, demonic voices, and other types of torment.
Be Set Free!
“He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.”
-Colossians 1:13-14
When Jesus died on the cross, He paid the price for our salvation, healing, and deliverance. We do not have to put up with any type of demonic influence. We can be set free from every way that the devil has sought to place us under bondage, oppression, or torment.
If you find yourself under the influence of evil spirits in any way, ask the Lord to show you if there are any open doors that have given them access. Close the doors through repentance and renunciation, and then command the evil spirits to go in the name of Jesus. In Jesus’ name we have authority over every demon; we no longer have to be bound. Be set free today!
For more information on deliverance ministry, check out my book Keys for Deliverance.
3 Comments
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Hi Jake,
Thank you for your informative insights about the influence of the enemy in peoples lives. I feel I am called to this ministry as well. I just began working with young adults who have been abused and court taken from their homes. They are living in a residential facility for girls and are being treated with scientific methodologies and medication that makes some of them like zombies. Some of these girls have confessed satanic worship and rituals they have done, but the Lord has shown him His love and mercy and gave me the honor to lead these girls to Christ and teach them the word of God every Tuesday night. If you remember, please Keep us in your prayers. God Bless You and your ministry.
Cristina,
Thanks for the comment! I pray that God will continue to give you insight, and fill you with his love and power as you minister to those in need. God bless you and your ministry as well!
Jake